5 Perfect Wine and Food Pairings Not to Miss in Florence

Florence is a city rich in culinary heritage, where the combination of wine and traditional Tuscan dishes elevates the dining experience to an art form. Discovering the perfect pairings can enhance the flavors of both food and wine, showcasing the best of Florentine cooking. Here are five must-try wine and food pairings in Florence, complete with insights into why they work and the basics of the wines involved.

1. Chianti Classico and Pollo alla Cacciatora

Why it Works: Chianti Classico is a classic Tuscan red wine that pairs wonderfully with Pollo alla Cacciatora (Hunter's Chicken). The wine's acidity and tannins balance the rich, savory flavors of the chicken cooked with tomatoes, olives, and herbs, creating a harmonious blend. The fruity notes of the wine complement the tangy tomato sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
Wine Basics: Chianti Classico is made primarily from Sangiovese grapes and originates from the Chianti region, just south of Florence. The wine is known for its notes of cherries, earth, and herbs, with a good balance of acidity and tannins, making it versatile for pairing with a variety of dishes.

2. Brunello di Montalcino and Wild Boar Ragù

Why it Works: Brunello di Montalcino is a full-bodied, complex wine that pairs excellently with Pappardelle al Cinghiale (wild boar ragù). The wine's deep, fruity flavors and tannic structure enhance the rich, gamey taste of the wild boar. The acidity of Brunello cuts through the fat of the meat, balancing the dish and bringing out its robust flavors.
Wine Basics: Brunello is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, specifically the Sangiovese Grosso variety. It comes from the Montalcino region, south of Florence, where the warm climate and unique soil composition contribute to its complex flavor profile, including dark fruit, leather, and spice.

3. Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Coccoli

Why it Works: Vernaccia di San Gimignano is a crisp, mineral-driven white wine that complements Coccoli—fried dough balls served with stracchino cheese and prosciutto. The wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the fried dough and balances the creaminess of the cheese, offering a refreshing contrast.
Wine Basics: Vernaccia di San Gimignano is made from Vernaccia grapes and is one of Italy's oldest and most esteemed white wines. It comes from the medieval town of San Gimignano, located southwest of Florence. The wine is known for its clean, crisp acidity, and subtle floral and mineral notes.

4. Super Tuscan Wines and Polpette

Why it Works: Super Tuscans are bold, complex wines that pair beautifully with Polpette (Italian meatballs). The rich fruit flavors and firm tannins of the wine enhance the savory notes of the meatballs, which are often simmered in a tomato sauce. This pairing showcases the depth and complexity of both the dish and the wine.
Wine Basics: Super Tuscans are often blends of Sangiovese with international grape varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These wines are produced in various areas of Tuscany, particularly the coastal regions of Bolgheri and Maremma. They are known for their full-bodied nature and rich bouquet of blackberries, spices, and oak.

5. Vin Santo and Cantucci

Why it Works: Vin Santo is a sweet, amber-colored dessert wine that pairs perfectly with Cantucci (almond biscuits). The wine's sweetness and nutty undertones enhance the flavor of the cantucci, and dipping the biscuits into the wine adds a delightful contrast between the wine's smooth texture and the biscuit's crispness.
Wine Basics: Vin Santo is made from dried grapes, typically Trebbiano and Malvasia, and aged in small barrels. It is produced throughout Tuscany, with notable variations in the Chianti and Montepulciano areas. The wine is characterized by its rich, honeyed sweetness, with notes of dried fruit, nuts, and caramel.

Learning These Pairings at Mama Florence

At Mama Florence, you can delve into these classic pairings through our hands-on cooking and wine classes. Our experienced chefs guide you through the preparation of authentic Tuscan dishes while teaching you how to select and appreciate the perfect wine pairing. You'll gain a deeper understanding of how the flavors of Florence's cuisine and wines come together, allowing you to recreate these experiences in your own kitchen.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of wine and food pairings in Florence is a journey into the heart of Tuscan culture. Each pairing is a celebration of the region's rich culinary traditions and its exceptional wines. From the robust flavors of Chianti and Pollo alla Cacciatora to the sweet finish of Vin Santo with Cantucci, these combinations offer a taste of Florence's culinary excellence. At Mama Florence, we invite you to discover and learn the art of these pairings, enriching your appreciation for the harmony of Tuscan cooking and wine.